Bachelor of Music in Music Education

The Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree provides skilled musicians the opportunity to develop expertise in the classroom, ensemble and private studio in preparation for careers and state certification as public music school teachers and directors.

This degree has three concentrations:

Music Education majors in an Instrumental or Choral concentration can add a General Music concentration (4-6 additional hours) to increase their versatility and job opportunities. 

With approximately 150 students, the Bachelor of Music in Music Education is the Hayes School of Music's largest degree program. It serves the state and the region with outstanding professionals who advance the art of music making among our youth.

Fast Facts

  • Nearly 100 percent job placement in recent years
  • Alumni are leaders in the North Carolina Music Educators Association, including past president James Daugherty '94
  • Current students come from and serve more than 50 percent of North Carolina's counties

 

Admissions

In addition to the general Appalachian State University application, any student interested in being considered as a music major, regardless of degree program, must audition successfully before the Hayes School of Music faculty. Information on auditions can be found here.

Supplemental Requirement: All students wishing to enter the Music Education program will be required to attend a departmental meeting on the day of the audition.

Costs

Appalachian offers an outstanding education at a great price. See why national publications consider us a "best value."

Music Scholarships

Classes

Classes in the Music Education program include the Hayes School of Music's core curriculum: private instrument/voice study, ensemble participation, music theory and aural skills, music history, world music and other musicianship classes.

Additionally, students in the degree study specific techniques for teaching elementary and secondary music students, as well as general education theory. These courses are taught through Appalachian's Reich College of Education. Courses include theoretical, practical and observational approaches. Successful completion of the degree leads to K-12 certification.

This degree requires a semester of student teaching.

More Information

Program Faculty

Faculty members in the Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree program include instrumental, vocal, and general music education experts. The program director is Dr. Lisa Runner. Other faculty members include:

Additional members of the Music Performance faculty teach secondary methods. See the full faculty and staff listing.

 

Careers

Do you love music? Do you want to teach? Be a music teacher! Graduates of the Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree enjoy a nearly 100 percent job placement in the public schools across the state and the region as music teachers and directors.

Alumni are active in the North Carolina Music Educators Association and take leadership roles, such as James Daugherty '94 who serves as a past president.

Get Help

  • For assistance in finding internship, career and graduate school opportunities, visit Appalachian's Career Development Center.
  • Click here for more about music careers